Stealth Margarita

Stealth Margarita by Ignacio “Nacho” Jimenez

“Nacho” Jimenez, head bartender at the multi award winning bar Ghost Donkey, set out to create a Mexican-themed, mezcal and tequila bar that evoked the “sense of welcome” present at any good Mexican dinner party. Drawing inspiration from his Central Mexico roots, he pulled influences from all regions of his homeland, from the drinks and food, to the festive décor, to the soundtrack of mix tapes his mother loved. In addition to the requisite nachos, you will find a frozen drinks machine behind the bar, serving up the easiest choice on the menu.

sneaking up on this one

I am toasting my friend Osamu and his Ninja secret box with something that will sneak up on you as well, if you are not careful. It’s a delicious version of the classic margarita, made with refreshing cucumber puree and sweetened with elderflower and agave. There’s a dash of chili heat as well, which can be homemade by infusing dried red chilis in vodka for a few days to make a tincture, which is how it’s done at New York’s Ghost Donkey, where this drink is served. I added the heat with Bittermen’s “Hellfire” habanero tincture, which is an incredible way to turn up the heat in a cocktail. I’ve even used straight Tabasco from time to time! Easy does it, or the drink will sneak up on you even faster!

a pair of sneakers

Stealth Margarita by Ignacio Jimenez

1 ½ oz blanco tequila

½ oz elderflower liqueur

½ oz agave syrup (1:1 agave:water)

¾ oz cucumber puree

¾ oz lime

3 dashes chili tincture

citrus salt: lemon, lime, orange and grapefruit zest mixed with sea salt

Combine ingredients in a blender with 5 ice cubes and blend. Pour into a favorite glass and garnish with citrus salt on the glass and a slice of cucumber.

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